The Army Achievement Medal largely recognizes junior officers and personnel for outstanding achievement and meritorious service.

During his time in the U.S. Army, Alan also became Airborne certified, completing jump school and earning the Parachutist Badge. While earning the Airborne certification, soldiers learn the basic techniques involved in jumping and parachuting from airplanes and conducting a safe landing. The three week consists of three major areas of focus:

Ground Week

During Ground Week, soldiers must pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and undergo an intensive program of basic individual instruction to learn the necessary skills to jump, parachute, and land safely.

Tower Week

The second week introduces team building efforts and skills that will set them up for success in the final week of training. Soldiers will work on jumping and parachute procedures from both the 34-foot and 250-foot towers, meeting all physical training requirements.

Jump Week

In the final week, soldiers set out to to successfully complete five jumps from 1,250 feet. Through the Basic Airborne Course, Alan Sheinwald earned a great deal of courage, self-confidence, as well as intense physical and mental conditioning that would prepare him for future experiences in the U.S. Army and the rest of his life.

The 7th U.S. Cavalry was established in 1866, following the end of the American Civil War. During this time, the nation began expanding westward and the U.S. Army Department decided that additional army units were needed to protect these settlers heading west for the potential of new lives, homes, and fortune. On September 21, 1866 the 7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment was proudly activated at Fort Riley, Kansas.